A second Engineering degree program at Conestoga has now received accreditation from Engineers Canada following a thorough review by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB).
The Electronic Systems Engineering (ESE) degree program employs a project-based learning approach that allows students to apply their theoretical learning to real-world projects. It is geared to motivated individuals looking for challenging careers in the dynamic and fast-paced world of digital and analog electronics, embedded systems, software and communications.
Accreditation through CEAB confirms that the program meets the profession’s high education standards. Graduates of accredited programs have the necessary academic qualifications to be licensed as professional engineers in Canada.
“We are very pleased to receive this validation from Engineers Canada for our program,” said Conestoga President John Tibbits. “The CEAB accreditation is a confirmation of the quality of both the program and the project-based learning approach, and recognizes the skills and knowledge of our graduates as they begin their careers in engineering.”
Conestoga is the first college in Ontario, and one of only two in Canada, to host accredited engineering programs. As well as Electronic Systems Engineering, Conestoga also delivers a degree program in Mechanical Systems Engineering, accredited in 2010. Both programs feature small classes, project-based learning and co-op work experience to prepare graduates for success in their chosen fields.
The latest accreditation announcement was welcomed by Nigel Doran, vice president (Engineering & Quality) at COM DEV and chair of the Program Advisory Committee for the ESE degree program.
“The Electronic Systems Engineering degree program at Conestoga develops new engineering graduates equipped with the problem-solving, interpersonal, technical and lifelong learning skills essential to employers, developed through a combination of familiar learning approaches and project-based learning that requires students to develop the ability to understand and apply engineering principles and techniques to develop working solutions,” said Doran.
The newly accredited program provides additional access to professional engineering designations for area students.
Richard Cunha is among the first group of graduates to earn the new ESE designation. "Before attending Conestoga, I had a passing interest in electronics and the desire to do something in the field,” said Cunha. “The Electronic Systems Engineering program provided me the confidence, engineering knowledge and experience required to apply and continue to hone my skills for everything from aerial robotics in Waterloo to mobile development in Silicon Valley."
Conestoga delivers 12 career-focused degree programs in such diverse areas as engineering and technology, business, health care, community services, media and design. For more information, visit www.conestogac.on.ca/degrees